What is the 26th Derivative of the Given Function at 0?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the 26th derivative of a piecewise function defined as f(x) = sin(x) for x ≠ 0 and f(0) = 1. The context suggests exploring the power series representation of the function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the implications of the function's definition and continuity at x = 0. Some express confusion about the role of the power series, while others question the correctness of the original problem statement.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the function's definition. A clarification about the function being sin(x)/x for x ≠ 0 has been introduced, which may guide further exploration.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted concern regarding the continuity of the function at x = 0 and the implications for differentiability. The original poster's confusion about the power series and the function's definition has been highlighted.

Frillth
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Homework Statement

Given that f(x) = sin(x) for x =/= 0 and f(x) = 1^x for x=0, find the 26th derivative of f at 0. Hint: can you find a power series for f(x)?

The attempt at a solution

I have no idea how to solve this problem. Since 1^x is always 1, the first derivative at 0 is 0, so ALL derivatives must be 0, right? I'm confused as to how a power series even comes into play in this problem.
 
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That's a very strange definition. Note that f(0) is just a number, so all they had to say was f(x)=1 for x=0, the 1^x bit is superfluous. But moreover, the function is not continuous at x=0, so doesn't have any derivatives, let alone 26. Which leads me to ask, are you sure you copied the question correctly?
 
I just noticed that somebody erased a line in my book! It should have been sin(x)/x for x=/=0 and 1 for x=0. That makes a lot more sense.
 
I advise you to use the hint given!
 

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